Monkey Troop Risks to Save Companion from Crocodile in Odisha

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: An extraordinary and heart-wrenching display of animal solidarity was witnessed in Kendrapara, Odisha, this week, captivating millions across social media. On December 25, 2025, a viral video emerged from the Kharinasi Reserve Forest near the Bhitarkanika National Park, depicting a scene of raw nature and deep-rooted loyalty. While a lone monkey was observed drinking water at the riverbank, it was suddenly ambushed and dragged into the depths by a saltwater crocodile. In a rare act of collective bravery, the victim’s troop was seen leaping into the crocodile-infested waters, refusing to let their companion go without a fight.

A Coordinated Counter-Attack

The dramatic footage, captured by a local youth on a mobile phone, reveals the moment a large troop of monkeys swam in a straight line toward the predator. Instead of fleeing the danger zone, approximately 20 monkeys were observed surrounding the crocodile in the water, creating a chaotic defense. This desperate attempt to intimidate the reptile was noted by wildlife enthusiasts as a rare display of “altruistic behavior” in primates. The troop was seen risking their own lives, swimming alongside the powerful predator in a bid to force it to release its hold on the infant monkey.

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The Tragic Conclusion of a Valiant Effort

Despite the incredible courage shown by the troop, the rescue mission was observed ending in tragedy. It was reported by eyewitnesses from Ramanagar village that the saltwater crocodile, an apex predator of the Mahanadi delta, ultimately overpowered the group. The infant was dragged deeper into the river, and after nearly 45 minutes of searching and frantic splashing, the exhausted troop was seen returning to the riverbank empty-handed. While the rescue failed, the video has been hailed by netizens as a “lesson in unity,” highlighting the emotional depth and protective instincts found within the animal kingdom.

Rising Crocodile-Human Conflict in the Region

The viral incident has also brought renewed attention to the intensifying crocodile menace in the Mahakalapada area. It was noted by forest officials that estuarine crocodiles have become increasingly bold, with 1,826 saltwater crocodiles recorded in the region this year. Local residents, including former sarpanch Narayan Haldar, were heard expressing concern that these predators are now regularly targeting livestock and even humans near the Kharinasi tributary. The video serves as a grim visual reminder of the constant danger faced by both wildlife and riverside communities in Odisha’s mangrove swamps.

Nature’s Lesson in Solidarity

As the year 2025 draws to a close, this video stands out as one of the most poignant wildlife moments of the year. The bond shared by the monkey troop has been observed by experts as a reflection of the intense social structures within primate groups. While the outcome was heartbreaking, the image of monkeys swimming toward certain death to save one of their own has resonated globally. The incident serves as a powerful testament to the fact that in the face of overwhelming odds, the instinct to protect a loved one remains the strongest force in nature.